HDFNL 2020 Season Cancelled

The Heathcote District Football Netball League is the first Victorian football league to abandon the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The league that includes the Leitchville-Gunbower Football and Netball Club received the news on the decision late last week with the board confirming details in the following statement. 

The decision to CANCEL SEASON 2020 effective as of Thursday May 21st May 2020, was made by the HDFNL Board last night, after lengthy discussions and consultations with Club presidents. This unprecedented decision is based on a number of factors:

(Based on State Government COVID-19 restriction roll out) The highly unlikely return to full scale training by June 15, which is the latest date as requested by clubs to be able to train as a whole, prior to the latest possible season start date of July 4.

The health and safety of all players, officials, and volunteers around forecast Return to Play restrictions at training (scheduled to start May 25). And in particular, the increased responsibility on club representatives to administer COVID-19 protocols.

The health, safety and financial impact on all individuals, should a COVID-19 case be detected at one of our Clubs. For example, isolation for a 14-day period and elderly populations particularly in rural areas at higher risk.

Financial hardship and lack of income clubs will endure. For example, no crowds, resulting in no gate takings, canteen and bar income, combined with an anticipated lack of sponsorship and other income streams – club fundraisers etc.

Considering the continued uncertainty around season 2020, this decision, as difficult and disappointing as it is, gives everyone clarity and somewhat relief of the unknown. We as a League and our Clubs can now focus on and look forward to a very exciting 2021 season.

HDFNL Board.